Germany Grants Zambia EURO 35.8 Million for Water & Energy Sector Projects
In a significant boost to Zambia’s water and energy sectors, Germany has granted EURO 35.8 million (equivalent to K750 million) to support vital projects aimed at contributing to economic transformation and job creation over the next five years. The grant agreements were formally signed at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning.
The signing ceremony was attended by key officials, including Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP; Head of Development Cooperation, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany to Zambia, Dr. Bernhard Trautner; and KFW Director (Zambia Office), Dr. Stephan Lutz.
Addressing the gathering, Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane highlighted the significance of the grant and its alignment with Zambia’s development aspirations. The funds provided by Germany, through KFW, will be directed towards projects in the energy and water sectors, crucial areas for the country’s socio-economic progress.
Dr. Musokotwane emphasized the government’s focus on sustainable energy resource development and management, with efforts complemented by the Get FiT Zambia project. This project aims to increase electricity generation capacity, meeting the rising energy demands and providing opportunities for independent power producers to invest in electricity generation, consequently contributing to job creation and poverty alleviation.
In the water sector, the Zambian government will concentrate on investing in water resources development and management to meet increasing demands and promote the productive use of water. With efforts directed at enhancing access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation services, the grant will support the urban water supply & sanitation and the management of water resources and sanitation for medium-sized towns projects.
Through these projects, Zambia seeks to improve sanitation in targeted districts, making a socially desirable impact on the livelihood of its people. The government expressed gratitude to Germany for its continued support, acknowledging the nation as one of its most significant cooperating partners since independence.
The signing of the grant agreements marks a testament to the strong and cordial relationship between the two governments. Minister Musokotwane expressed confidence that with the support of Germany, Zambia will make substantial progress in achieving its development agenda and uplifting the lives of its citizens.
The grant from Germany will play a pivotal role in advancing crucial infrastructure and services in the water and energy sectors, bolstering Zambia’s economic growth and social well-being.
